AL DÍA is set to host the annual AL DÍA Lawyers Forum & Reception event next month.

The event was established to recognize the Latinx lawyers who exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and ethics within the law profession.

“Latinos have been active contributors to the cultural, educational, and judicial growth of Philadelphia for many years. However, their stories are not often recognized as significant to the framework of our community,” AL DÍA Publisher & CEO, Hernan Guaracao, said in a statement.

This year’s forum will feature the Honorable Juan R. Sánchez, Chief United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, as the honored guest.

Sánchez is the first Latino chief judge of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, a job he was held since Aug. 1, 2018.

Born in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, Sánchez moved to Bronx, NY at the age of 12. After graduating from the City College of the City University of New York, he earned a law degree at the University of Pennsylvania Law School.

He then spent 14 years in the Chester County public defender’s office, and later six years as a judge for the Chester County Court, presiding over criminal, civil and juvenile matters.

In Nov. 2003, Sanchez was nominated by President George W. Bush to a seat on the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. He was later confirmed and appointed by the United States Senate in June 2004.

At the event, AL DÍA will also honor three of the top Latinx lawyers with Top Lawyers’ Champions of Justice Awards for their professional excellence, and achievement, leadership, commitment to legal and community service, as well as their dedication to improving the legal profession within the Greater Philadelphia region. The categories of the awards will be Top Lawyer: Law Firm, Top Lawyer: Government/Non-Profit, and the Gus Garcia Lifetime Achievement Award. 

The event will take place on Oct. 1 at the Pyramid Club from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. To purchase a ticket to the event, click here.